Course content

Training modules are tailored to reflect the Pilot and Air Traffic Controller work environment. Effective English-language communication is taught through repetition during a variety of realistic scenarios, covering regular operations, irregular operations and emergency situations. Standard ICAO phraseology is used whenever applicable.

The IATA-Berlitz training programs follow the Berlitz Method
TM, which focuses on teaching a language through speaking. Learners are taught to think in English rather than translate from their mother tongue.

Berlitz Languages, Inc. is a world-renowned language service provider with over 400 training centers in 60 countries. The unique Berlitz Method TM is highly effective because it is:

Fast

Context-based

Conducted in the target language only

Broken down into attainable building blocks

Designed to maximize student participation

This is a sample of the program for Level 3 Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers:

Module 1 – Geography

Module 2 - Meteorological Conditions

Module 3 - Aircraft Maintenance

Module 4 - Cargo and Dangerous Goods

Module 5 - Flight Planning

Module 6 – Departure

Module 7 - En Route

Module 8 - Flight Safety and Security

Module 9 - First Aid and Medical Assistance

Module 10 - Descent, Approach and Landing

Each module includes:

Topical vocabulary and vocabulary exercises

Communicative functions

Pronunciation tips

Listening comprehension

Role play and skits

Application in the cockpit, control room or tower

Topical reading and discussion

Related words and expressions

Interesting facts, word origins

Review

Who should attend

ICAO Level 4 proficiency is a requirement for:

Airline, charter, private and other fixed-wing and helicopter pilots who fly internationally

Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCOs) and assistants

Anyone using air-ground voice communications for international air operations

Additional information

Total Aviation English Training Solution

The Aviation English assessment and training can be delivered through many different training formats based on your training requirements.

1. Proficiency assessment

Use our assessment service to easily determine what English language training your staff needs to achieve ICAO Level 4 proficiency. You will receive a detailed Summary Report for each candidate evaluated, plus a recommended training plan.
More about the assessment service.

2. Training

Choose the lesson type that best suits the proficiency level and training requirements of your staff:

Private lessons: For individual candidates only. All lessons are led by a single, dedicated instructor to ensure the candidate practices speaking as much as possible. This is a highly effective way to learn a language.

Semi-private lessons: For groups of two to three candidates. Lessons are conducted by a single, dedicated instructor one to three times a week, focusing on speaking skills.

In-company/ local facility group lessons: For groups of four to ten candidates. Lessons are scheduled at the company site or local Berlitz office over several weeks. This is a cost-effective solution for large teams.

Total immersion: For individual and group candidates. Full-day lessons are held for a period of two to six weeks in locations such as Toronto (Canada), Vancouver (Canada), and London (UK).

Virtual classroom: For one to six candidates. Lessons are conducted online using a dedicated website. Candidates converse with an instructor in real time and use additional course materials provided in digital format. This cost-effective method eliminates travel time and expenses without compromising on lesson quality.

Estimated number of training hours required to reach ICAO Level:

Current ICAO score

Number of units required to attain
Level 4

Number of training hours required to attain
Level 4

Level 1

360

270

Level 2 (medium)

288

216

Level 2 (high)

264

198

Level 3 (low)

216

162

Level 3 (medium)

180

135

Level 3 (high)

144

108

Levels 4-6

None

None

Note: The number of required lessons varies by lesson type, the intensity of the training, and the learning capabilities of the candidates.

3. Proficiency test

Upon completion of training, candidates must pass the proficiency test to assess and validate their ICAO Level 4 rating. The proficiency test consists of an oral evaluation, conducted by a native English speaker.